Toasters and Toaster Ovens

I know we are not to have anything with an open/exposed heating element.  What is the rule on toaster ovens in staff lounges? 

I recommend you perform a risk assessment and make the EOC Committee approve or disapprove the use of toaster ovens.  I would emphasize that unlike toasters, toaster ovens have a much higher temp and don’t always turn off. TJC is pretty silent on this issue and if asked by a surveyor you would want to produce a risk assessment that indicated the hospital reviewed the risk associated with the toaster oven and approved (hopefully not) certain locations where they are allowed. Another thought is to talk directly with the local AHJ and see if they prohibit the use of toaster ovens in a healthcare setting.  Also you might want to talk with your insurance carrier and see if they have a problem with the toaster oven.